Icons of Power

National Geographic: Icons of Power - Empress of Ambition documents the life and reign of Russia's Catherine the Great, widely considered one of the most controversial rulers in the history of the world.

This historical documentary from National Geographic recounts the final defeat of one of history's most compelling leaders. Napoleon Bonaparte's phenomenal rise to power came to an end by 1814, when an alliance of enemies triumphed over his forces and banished him to the island of Elba. But the French ruler refused to give up on his dream of world conquest, and he proceeded to organize an epic, history-defining battle from his island prison.

Explore the intriguing story of Peter the Great, the boy czar who moved Russia into the modern age in the 18th century. Stunning cinematography enhances the reenactments that trace the tragedies of his childhood, his triumphs on the battlefields and the paranoia that caused him to imprison his son. Part of National Geographic's Icons of Power series, this fascinating documentary sheds light on the life and reign of the complex ruler.

Drawing on present day experts and historical records, this program catapults viewers back to the tumult and high drama of the Tudor period to depict an astounding story of sexual intrigue and royal politicking.